 governorship candidate, has refuted claims of an alliance with Governor-elect Lucky Aiyedatiwa, dismissing rumors of the party’s endorsement of his administration.){kind=link}
Hon. Olugbenga Edema, the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP) governorship candidate, has refuted claims of an alliance with Governor-elect Lucky Aiyedatiwa, dismissing rumors of the party’s endorsement of his administration.
In a statement issued in Akure, Edema clarified that neither he nor any representative from the NNPP attended a recent meeting in which political parties purportedly pledged support for Aiyedatiwa’s government.
Last Friday, the Ondo State government announced that candidates and chairmen from 13 political parties that contested in the gubernatorial election had accepted the results and expressed support for the governor-elect.
The meeting, which took place at the Banquet Hall of the Government House in Akure, included parties such as Accord (A), Action Alliance (AA), Allied Peoples Movement (APM), and NNPP, among others.
However, Edema rejected the claims, stating:
“Neither I nor anyone from the NNPP attended the meeting where support for Governor Aiyedatiwa was pledged. The party has not endorsed the current administration, and any claims to the contrary should be disregarded.”
He further emphasized that the NNPP is involved in an ongoing legal challenge concerning the eligibility of the APC to field candidates in the election (Suit No. FHC/AK/CS/103/2024). Edema urged the public to disregard any insinuations of NNPP’s involvement in the alleged endorsements.
Reaffirming the party’s commitment to democracy and the welfare of Ondo State, he stated:
“Our focus remains on upholding democratic principles and advocating for the people. The NNPP will continue to pursue its values and vision for the state.”
Edema also underscored the need for political parties to engage meaningfully, rather than merely offering endorsements, reiterating NNPP’s dedication to its principles.